⚖️ Court Ruling Rocks Bunkie Mayoral Race: Statements from Sampson & Reynolds!

Sampson, Reynolds issue statements following court ruling in Bunkie Mayoral Race

Following last week’s ruling by the 12th Judicial District Court disqualifying Michelle Reynolds from the May 16 mayoral ballot, both Reynolds and incumbent Mayor Brenda Sampson have released public statements addressing the decision and its aftermath.

Reynolds was disqualified after the court determined she did not meet the residency requirements under Louisiana law to seek municipal office. State statute requires that a candidate be domiciled within the municipality for at least one year prior to qualifying.

In a statement released after the hearing, Reynolds said she respects the legal process and accepts the court’s ruling.

“While this is not the outcome I had hoped for, I respect the legal process and accept the ruling,” Reynolds said. She extended congratulations to Mayor Sampson and thanked supporters for their encouragement throughout her campaign. Reynolds added that her commitment to serving the Bunkie community remains unchanged.

Mayor Sampson also addressed the ruling and responded to criticism circulating on social media. In her statement, Sampson said it is the responsibility of each candidate to ensure they meet all legal qualifications for office and noted that residency requirements are clearly outlined in state law.

Sampson further stated that candidate challenges are not unprecedented in Bunkie politics, referencing a prior disqualification in 2018. She emphasized that the recent legal action followed established procedures under election law.

Addressing broader community concerns, Sampson outlined several ongoing city initiatives, including:

• Demolition of long-standing dilapidated structures
• Completion of a multi-million-dollar drainage project
• Improvements involving the Carver/Bunkie Middle School Gym
• Grant funding secured for a municipal water well replacement
• Continued efforts to expand affordable housing

“With the court’s ruling, I look forward to continuing the work of moving Bunkie forward,” Sampson stated, adding that she remains committed to serving all residents of the city.

With Reynolds’ disqualification, Sampson is now unopposed in the May 16 election. Unless further legal action is pursued within statutory deadlines, she will continue in office for another term.